An oral solution formulation of Abilify (aripiprazole) has been received approval from the US FDA, both Bristol-Myers Squibb and Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. have jointly announced here.

Abilify Oral Solution will provide an important new option for adult patients who are unable to swallow or have difficulty swallowing tablets, providing a greater measure of flexibility in addressing individual patient needs. The oral solution formulation will be available in pharmacies in February 2005.

Abilify is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and acute manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Abilify is the first and only dopamine partial agonist. Since its introduction in 2002, Abilify has been prescribed to more than 700,000 patients.

Anthony Hooper, president, US Pharmaceuticals, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company said, "We are pleased to provide another effective treatment option, helping physicians manage patients for whom the oral tablet may not be appropriate."

"We are very proud to have discovered Abilify, a unique pharmacological agent that represents our strong focus on pharmaceutical innovation," said Tatsuo Higuchi, president and representative director, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.